In São Paulo, a court has ruled against a bar in Caraguatatuba, imposing a R$ 70,000 fine for damages due to its illegal operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The judgment came from the 2nd Civil Court in response to a public civil action initiated by the Public Ministry of São Paulo. The court's decision noted that the establishment, which was registered as a restaurant, held live music events and allowed overcrowding, disregarding the health protocols and operating outside permitted hours.

Reports indicate that inspections revealed that the bar was not adhering to the Governor's Plan São Paulo, as it allowed gatherings even during stricter phases of the pandemic guidelines. The bar was previously fined and closed after being found with a crowd exceeding the allowable limit, with violations including patrons not wearing masks and the sale of alcoholic beverages outside of permitted times. These infractions prompted action from the authorities, emphasizing the necessity of compliance with public health directives to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.

This ruling signifies the broader implications of enforcing health safety regulations during the pandemic and sends a clear message to similar establishments about the importance of following state rules. The ongoing potential for appeal highlights the contentious nature of legal repercussions stemming from COVID-19 restrictions, revealing the challenges authorities face in balancing public health concerns with economic interests in the hospitality sector.